Flying for the first time? Congratulations! You’re about to join the club of people who know what clouds look like from above (spoiler: they’re just fluffier than they seem from below). Air travel can be thrilling, but it also comes with its fair share of rules, processes, and, let’s admit, mild panic.
On one of my solo flights, I found myself with no one to chat with. In such moments, you become more aware of your surroundings. I noticed an elderly lady who looked utterly baffled by the labyrinth of airport formalities. Watching her struggle, I realized how overwhelming this whole process can be for first-timers. I was lucky enough to have a companion with prior flying experience on my first flight. But not everyone has a seasoned traveller by their side. So, I decided to pen down a guide to help make your first flying experience smooth, exciting, and (hopefully) stress-free.
The Joy of First Flight Experience
The first flight is always special. Whether you’re 16 or 60, the excitement is universal: the joy of packing your bags, daydreaming about the aerial views, and maybe even worrying about jet lag (even on a domestic flight). My first flight was no less thrilling. It was a mix of butterflies in my stomach and a slight fear. I stared out of the window, marveling at the landscape below, and till today, over two dozens flights later, that wonder hasn’t faded.
But here’s the thing: flying isn’t just about staring at the clouds. It involves quite a few steps that can seem daunting if you don’t know what to expect. Lucky for you, this guide will cover it all—from booking your ticket to strutting out of the airport like a seasoned traveler.
1. Booking Your Flight
Booking your flight is like playing the stock market—prices fluctuate wildly. Search too many times, and you’ll feel the prices mocking you by climbing higher. Book early to avoid sky-high fares (literally!).
You can also pre-select your seat (sometimes at an extra cost), so you can sit with your travel buddies or snag that coveted window seat. Don’t want to pay extra? Let the system assign a seat for free—you might even make a new friend onboard.
Once booked, remember to check-in online within 48 hours of departure. This step gives you a boarding pass (digital or printable), your golden ticket to fly.
2. Packing Smart
Packing for a flight is like playing Tetris—everything needs to fit within limits. Airlines are strict about baggage limits, so pack light. Here’s the breakdown:
Check-in luggage: Up to 15 kg for domestic flights (you hand this over to the airline crew at their counters).
Cabin luggage: Up to 7 kg (you carry this onboard). For international flights, check your airline’s specific baggage limit.
Overweight luggage? Be prepared to either ditch some items or pay a hefty fee.
Some important baggage guidelines to keep in mind:
* Electronics (including power banks & batteries): Hand/cabin baggage only.
* No sharp objects (nail cutters, scissors, etc.) or liquids over 100 ml in hand luggage.
* Glass items, Perfume/Deo, and other metallic items to be carried in check-in luggage.
* Keep jewelry, cash, and documents in your cabin bag—airlines won’t take responsibility for lost valuables.
Attention all passengers: You cannot carry coconuts and water chestnuts onboard, lest you accidentally start a mid-air food fight. Apparently, the airport authorities have decided we can’t be trusted with these fruits—after all, who knows what could happen if someone gets too excited and hurls a coconut at their seatmate! So, peel your fruits and enjoy them before the security screening, or pack them in your checked-in luggage. (Only Whole coconuts are allowed in check-in luggage.)
Consider packing some Quilled jewellery to complement your fancy outfits. These colorful pieces will undoubtedly elevate your look without adding extra weight to your luggage. Plus, paper jewelry is lightweight, eco-friendly, and can easily be carried in both your check-in and hand baggage. Each piece is handcrafted, ensuring you’re wearing something truly unique. Curious about where to find these charming creations? Visit anushas_creations on Instagram for an adorable collection of eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and one-of-a-kind Quilled jewellery. Use the code AYANTIKA10 to enjoy a 10% discount on your first purchase!
3. Documents You’ll Need
Ah, the delightful world of paperwork—where the only thing more exciting than your flight is rummaging through your bag for your ID! For domestic travel, you’ll need either your Aadhaar, voter ID, or driver’s license. But if you’re flying internationally, get ready to show off your passport and visa, which, let’s be honest, might just feel like your VIP pass to the world.
Also, consider downloading DigiYatra, a handy app that speeds up airport queues by letting you verify your identity digitally. Who doesn’t love skipping lines!
4. Reaching the Airport
Arrive at least 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours early for international ones. Check-in, security screening, and boarding can take longer than you think, especially with crowds.
At the entrance, show your ID and ticket to the security personnel. Once inside, find your airline’s check-in counter, hand over your check-in luggage, and collect a printed boarding pass.
5. Security Screening
This is where things get serious. At the security check, you have to get yourself frisked and your hand luggage scanned thoroughly. Remove belts, watches, electronics, wallets, and metal items and place them in the trays provided. Sometimes shoes may need to come off, too. But hey, don’t lose your socks in the process.
Pro tip: Avoid packing food in foil containers unless you enjoy explaining your meal to curious officers.
Got time to kill? If you’ve ever waited at a bus or railway station, then trust me, waiting at the airport will feel like a breeze. No more sweating it out on a bench or dodging puddles of mystery water. With temperature-controlled air, sparkling clean floors, and enough amenities, you might even wish your flight was delayed just so you can soak in the comfort. Else, you may head to the food court—but be ready to pay gourmet prices for instant noodles. You may also explore duty-free shops—but beware, they’re not kind to your wallet.
6. Boarding Your Flight
Once cleared, you’re free to head to your boarding gate. Your boarding gate number will be on your pass or displayed on airport screens. Additionally your boarding pass will provide you with the following information: flight number, sequence number, seat number, and zone. Use airport signage or ask for help if you’re unsure where to go.
Safety Instructions: Follow these onboard instructions to ensure a smooth and secure flight
Once onboard, listen to the safety instructions (yes, they could save your life, or at least delay, accidental death). If you feel dizzy during takeoff or landing, chew gum or pop in earphones and play your favorite tunes.
7. In-Flight Entertainment (or Lack Thereof)
Phones must be in flight mode, so say goodbye to scrolling. Ah, the rare moment of peace, where the only thing louder than your seatmate’s snoring is the hum of the engine. Use this rare social media-free time to strike up a conversation with your seatmate, or catch up on some much-needed sleep. And if you’re lucky, some airlines offer in-flight Wi-Fi, giving you just enough connection to distract yourself.
8. Collecting Your Luggage
After landing, listen for the announcement about the baggage carousel number. May your baggage arrive quickly, and your coconuts stay safely in your checked-in luggage! Spotting your checked-in bag on the conveyor belt can feel like winning a mini lottery—just don’t grab someone else’s bag in the excitement!
9. Exiting the Airport
Once you’ve got your luggage, you’re free to leave the airport. Welcome to your destination!
Flying might feel like a series of small hurdles, but with this guide in hand, you’ll soon be walking through airports like you own the place. Take a deep breath, enjoy the journey, and embrace the quirks of air travel. Happy flying, and don’t forget to grab that window seat for your first time!
Ayantika Malakar 
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